Cause Of Fire At Cap’s Tavern In Brewer Was Arson

The State Fire Marshal's Office has been investigating ever since fire broke out late Thursday night and determined that the fire started in a hallway between the second and third floor apartments. One of those apartments was being rented but the tenants were able to get out without any serious injuries.

Scott Richardson with the Fire Marshal's Office says the cause of the fire had an 'intentional human element.' He said investigators brought in an accelerant-detecting canine, who gave a positive result, indicating to them that the fire was deliberately set.

Cap's Tavern, that occupies the first floor of the building, had closed at 10:00 p.m., about an hour before the fire broke out. Owner Del Merritt has said that the bar was insured and he plans to rebuild.

Brewer Police and the State Fire Marshal's Office continue to investigate. So far, no arrests have been made.